Molecular detection of Rickettsia aeschlimannii, Borrelia theileri, and Francisella-like endosymbionts in Camelus dromedarius and dogs in Luxor, Egypt

Vector-borne bacterial pathogens can cause disease in a range of animals, including dromedary camels and dogs, but epidemiological and molecular studies on these pathogens are scarce in southern Egypt. In this study, we screened camels and dogs in southern Egypt (Luxor) for vector-borne bacterial pathogens, with molecular analysis of 200 blood samples collected from camels and dogs in the region. The Rickettsia aeschlimannii gltA gene was detected in 5% (5/100) of camel blood samples and 1% (1/100) of dog blood samples. This study is the first report of Rickettsia aeschlimannii in camel blood in southern Egypt. Additionally, the 16S rRNA gene of a Francisella-like endosymbiont was detected in both camel and dog blood for the first time, with infection rates of 2% (2/100) in camels and 2% (2/100) in dogs. In dog blood, the Borrelia theileri flaB gene was detected for the first time in southern Egypt at a positivity rate of 5% (5/100). Neither Coxiella nor Bartonella species were detected in this study. In southern Egypt, Rickettsia aeschlimannii, Borrelia theileri, and Francisella-like endosymbionts were detected in camels and dogs, providing valuable information about their infection rate and these findings contribute to a better understanding of their transmission dynamics.